The “comeback” of France to the European Union has long been awaited by Germany. The role played by Nicolas Sarkozy in the final negotiations about the Lisbon Treaty seemed a good omen. But for Berlin, some doubts remain : does Paris intend to be a reliable partner, or will it be a “free rider” ? There are also some unanswered questions left : will France finally undertake the much needed economic reforms ? Will it accept that its project for the Mediterranean countries fully adhere to the European Union approach ?